Odawara: Zazen Meditation, Shojin Ryori, and Tea Ceremony

Amidst the serene gardens of Shotaiji temple in Odawara, visitors are invited to initiate a mesmerizing journey through Japan’s timeless spiritual and culinary traditions. Here, the rhythmic breaths of zazen meditation echo through the halls, as devotees seek inner tranquility. This meditative state is then enhanced by the flavors of shojin ryori, a refined vegetarian cuisine that pays homage to the country’s gastronomic heritage. But the experience reaches its pinnacle during the serene tea ceremony, where the rich, frothy notes of matcha tea forge a profound connection to Japan’s revered cultural legacy. What awaits beyond this enchanting portal is a world of discovery, just waiting to be revealed.

Good To Know

• Explore the historic Shotaiji temple in Odawara, offering a 2-hour immersive experience into Japanese spirituality and culture.
• Participate in guided zazen meditation, focusing on rhythmic breathing to cultivate inner peace and mental clarity.
• Indulge in a shojin ryori lunch, a traditional vegetarian culinary experience nourishing body and soul.
• Engage in a traditional tea ceremony, led by a tea master, to savor matcha and appreciate its cultural significance.
• Discover the temple’s rich legacy and its role in the region’s power dynamics, providing a glimpse into the lives seeking solace and enlightenment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Package Overview

The package offers travelers a chance to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of a historic temple in Odawara.

Over the course of 2 hours, you will explore the enchanting world of Japanese spirituality and culture. They’ll learn the art of zazen meditation, savor a delectable shojin ryori lunch, and discover the profound cultural significance of matcha during a traditional tea ceremony.

Priced from €186.79 per person, this all-inclusive experience promises to nourish both body and soul.

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence, paying nothing today to secure their spot.

Temple History

Nestled within the historic tapestry of Odawara, Shotaiji temple has long stood as a revered sanctuary, once offering refuge to the region’s feudal lords.

Its storied halls have borne witness to the ebbs and flows of power, serving as a tranquil respite from the tumult of the past.

Today, the temple’s hallowed grounds beckon visitors to uncover its rich legacy, inviting them to step back in time and glimpse the lives of those who sought solace and enlightenment within its walls.

From the intricate architecture to the whispers of bygone eras, Shotaiji’s history is woven into the very fabric of Odawara’s cultural tapestry.

Zazen Meditation

Within the serene precincts of Shotaiji temple, visitors commence on a profound journey of self-discovery through the practice of zazen meditation.

Guided by an experienced instructor, they settle into a cross-legged posture, spine erect, and focus their gaze inward. The rhythmic cadence of breathing calms the mind, allowing thoughts to drift by like passing clouds.

Time seems to slow, and an enveloping stillness permeates the space. Gradually, one transcends the boundaries of self, entering a domain of heightened awareness and inner peace.

This centuries-old practice, rooted in Zen Buddhism, cultivates mental clarity, emotional balance, and a deep connection to the present moment.

Shojin Ryori Cuisine

What awaits participants as they shift from the serene practice of zazen meditation? A culinary journey into the depths of Japanese Buddhist tradition.

Shojin ryori, the refined vegetarian cuisine, nourishes body and soul alike. Pristine ingredients, carefully selected and prepared, manifest as exquisite flavors. Simplicity reigns supreme, allowing the natural essence of each element to shine.

Umami-rich mushrooms, crisp vegetables, and fragrant rice create a harmonious symphony on the plate. This vegetarian culinary art, originating from China, has been refined over centuries within Japanese temple kitchens.

Now, visitors can savor this soulful sustenance, mindfully connecting with Japan’s profound cultural heritage.

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Tea Ceremony Experience

The tea ceremony unfolds with reverent precision, guided by the steady hand of the tea master. Each graceful movement carries centuries of tradition, as the tea leaves are carefully measured, the water gently heated, and the delicate porcelain cups prepared.

The participants watch in rapt attention, their senses awakened by the earthy aroma of matcha and the soothing sounds of the ritual. The tea master pours with a fluid elegance, serving each guest with the utmost care.

In the quiet moments that follow, the room is suffused with a sense of tranquility, as your savor the exquisite, emerald-hued brew – a profound connection to Japan’s cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance of Matcha

Matcha, the vibrant green powdered tea, holds a revered place in Japanese culture, its significance woven into the fabric of the nation’s history and rituals.

This ceremonial tea, steeped in the traditions of the tea ceremony, is more than just a beverage – it’s a vessel for mindfulness, reverence, and the appreciation of beauty.

From its origins in the peaceful Zen Buddhist monasteries to its role in the intricate choreography of the Chanoyu, matcha has become a symbol of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Its earthy, umami-rich flavor and vivid hue evoke a sense of calm and connection, making it an integral part of the country’s spiritual and gastronomic landscape.

Important Details to Note

Participants commence on this enchanting journey with a clear meeting point – the gate of the historic Shotaiji temple in Odawara.

This experience isn’t suitable for all, though – children under 12, wheelchair users, and those over 95 won’t be able to join. Guests should wear comfortable attire and shoes, as smoking isn’t permitted.

Once gathered, the group will plunge into the serene world of zazen meditation, savor delicate shojin ryori cuisine, and discover the profound cultural significance of matcha through a traditional tea ceremony.

With opportunities to uncover the temple’s fascinating history, this immersive experience nourishes both body and soul.

Immersive Cultural Encounter

How does one commence on this enchanting journey into the tranquil domain of Odawara’s historic Shotaiji temple?

Visitors are welcomed into the serene compound, its ancient architecture and lush gardens evoking a bygone era. They’ll partake in the venerable practices of zazen meditation, honing inner focus and equanimity.

The shojin ryori lunch, a vegetarian culinary tradition steeped in Buddhist philosophy, nourishes both body and soul with its exquisite flavors and seasonal ingredients.

Finally, the tea ceremony invites guests to savor the profound cultural significance of matcha, guided by a skilled tea master.

This immersive experience offers a profound connection to Japan’s rich spiritual and gastronomic heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Experience for a Private Group?

Yes, the experience can be booked for a private group. They’ll enjoy the tranquility of the historic temple, savor the exquisite flavors of shojin ryori, and discover the cultural significance of the traditional tea ceremony in an intimate setting.

Is This Activity Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans?

The shojin ryori cuisine and tea ceremony are designed with vegetarians and vegans in mind, nourishing body and soul with exquisite flavors rooted in Buddhist tradition. Participants will relish this immersive cultural experience.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements or Restrictions?

The package accommodates various dietary needs, with its shojin ryori cuisine being entirely vegetarian. Vegans will also find suitable options, as the focus is on seasonal, plant-based ingredients that nourish both body and soul.

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography during the tea ceremony is generally discouraged, as it can disrupt the meditative atmosphere and traditional customs. However, guests may be permitted to take a few discreet photos at the tea master’s discretion.

How Physically Demanding Is the Zazen Meditation Session?

The zazen meditation session is gentle yet focused, requiring minimal physical exertion. Participants sit comfortably on cushions, guiding their breath and attention inward to cultivate inner peace and clarity.

The Sum Up

Odawara’s spiritual sanctuary offers a profound journey into the heart of Japanese culture. Visitors are transported through the timeless rituals of zazen, shojin ryori, and the revered tea ceremony, revealing the deep connections between food, mindfulness, and the divine. This immersive experience awakens the senses, nurtures the soul, and leaves a lasting impression of Japan’s enduring cultural treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: